02/10/2026
Kia ora e te whānau,
Since 2009, our Historical Account Working Group has given itself, freely and without reward, to one purpose: making sure the story of Rangiaowhia is told with truth and with aroha. These are volunteers who have carried this kaupapa for years.
Combing through records, listening to kaumātua, and cross-checking kōrero, so that what is written is as close to the truth as we can possibly get.
Over this past year that mahi has sharpened into its clearest form yet, shaping the events at Rangiaowhia, 21 February 1864, into a document that can stand within the Hohou i te Rongo process.
We want to thank and acknowledge every member of the Historical Account Working Group for their tireless mahi in reaching this point. This has not been an easy piece of work, and they have carried it with humility and dedication. We also extend our sincere thanks to everyone who participated and contributed along the way - whānau, kaumātua, and all those who generously shared their kōrero, memories, and records to help gather the information needed to shape this account.
Pictured here: the Working Group at their final wānanga in September, working paragraph by paragraph through the draft, to ensure the account reflects, as closely and honestly as possible, the agreed record of Apakura interactions.
In the photo left to right: Harry Maki-Midwood, Moepātu Borell, John Tawhana Hetet, Danny Te Kanawa, Sybille Hetet, Orrin Kapua and Steven Wilson
Absent: Matua Tom Roa, Robert Joseph and Leah Bell, Hazel Wander
